Seeking Lasting Joy through Christ’s Teachings
When we look for happiness in our lives, it’s easy to get caught up chasing after things like money, comfort, or popularity. But according to Jesus’s teachings in the Sermon on the Mount, there’s a deeper, lasting happiness that can’t be found in this world or the next unless we seek it from Christ, following the guidance of his word.
The Source of True Happiness
Jesus didn’t just tell people what to believe—he showed them what was truly important. He taught what we should avoid and what we should pursue if we genuinely want to experience joy and fulfillment. In simple terms, Jesus explained that chasing after things that seem good in the moment can leave us empty, but seeking a relationship with God and living by his principles leads to real happiness.
The Heart of the Sermon on the Mount
The Sermon on the Mount, found in Matthew chapters 5 through 7, is perhaps the most famous sermon ever given. It’s not just a set of rules; it’s an invitation to live a life that’s pleasing to God—a life that’s honest, loving, wise, and full of grace. Jesus started by going up a mountainside, sitting down, and teaching his disciples and the crowds that gathered. He began with what we now call the Beatitudes, which describe the kind of people God calls “blessed.”
The Beatitudes: Who Is Truly Blessed?
· Poor in spirit: Those who recognize their need for God are promised the kingdom of heaven.
· Those who mourn: People who feel sorrow for the brokenness in the world will be comforted.
· The meek: Humble people, not those who push others around, will inherit the earth.
· Those who hunger and thirst for righteousness: People who want to do what’s right will be satisfied.
· The merciful: Those who show compassion will receive mercy themselves.
· The pure in heart: People whose intentions are good will see God.
· The peacemakers: Those who bring peace are called children of God.
· Those persecuted for doing right: Even when people suffer for following Jesus, they are promised the kingdom of heaven.
What Should We Avoid? What Should We Seek?
Jesus challenged the crowds to turn away from pride, hypocrisy, and judging others harshly. Instead, he called them to be kind, generous, and forgiving. He didn’t just speak about outward actions but also about the attitudes and motives of the heart. Jesus taught that how we treat others matters, and that real goodness comes from within.
Why Christ’s Words Still Matter
Even today, people spend a lot of time and energy trying to “find themselves” or achieve happiness in all sorts of ways. But Jesus’s message is clear: unless we look for happiness in him—trusting his words and living as he taught—we’ll keep coming up short. True happiness is not about having a life free from problems, but about having a life filled with God’s love, purpose, and hope.
Making Time for Christ’s Teaching
It’s easy to think we’re too busy to spend time in prayer or reading the Bible, but Jesus himself often spent whole nights in prayer. He showed us that it’s worth pausing our busy lives to seek God. Listening to Christ’s words, learning from him, and letting his teachings shape our choices are the keys to a truly happy and meaningful life.
Conclusion: Where Will We Seek Happiness?
If we want happiness that lasts—not just for this life, but for eternity—we need to look beyond what the world offers. We need to seek it from Christ, living by the wisdom he shared. His teaching shows us what to avoid and what to pursue, and invites us into a life full of love, grace, and true joy. As Jesus reminds us, even when life is hard or people misunderstand us, there is a great reward for those who trust and follow him.
Minister A Francine Green
December 2025
afrancinegreen.com 